Tree Broomheath
Monotoca elliptica
Family: Ericaceae
What it is like
An erect shrub. It has many branches. It grows 2-4 m high and spreads 0.6-2.5 m wide. The leaves are alternate. The leaves are narrowly oval and 1-2.5 cm long by 0.3-0.7 cm wide. They are dark green above and pale underneath. The leaves are sharply pointed. The flowers are white and small. They are 0.2 cm long. They are crowded on small branches. They have a sweet scent. The fruit are orange-red and fleshy. They are 0.4 cm long.
There are 16 Monotoca species. They grow in Australia.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows as an understorey plant in forest especially on sandy soils. It can grow in sun or light shade. The soils need to be well drained. They are drought tolerant and hard to frost. Tasmania Herbarium.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The ripe fruit is eaten.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
The plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.